What are Xiaomi smart watches: a full review of the series

The modern wearables market is oversupplied, but it is the Chinese tech giant that is driving the pace of the industry. When users ask what Xiaomi smartwatches are, they often don’t realize the depth of classification and the variety of functionality hidden behind a single brand. The evolution from simple pedometers to full-fledged wrist-mounted multimedia centers has been rapid, covering different price segments and needs.

Understanding the differences between the Mi Band, Xiaomi Watch and Redmi Watch lines is critical to making the right choice, as they are based on vastly different software platforms. A series definition error can lead to a device with limited functionality that does not meet the expectations of the flagship smartphone owner. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the architecture of the model range so that you can make an informed decision.

The main difference lies not only in the price, but also in the operating system that controls the gadget. While some models run on lightweight proprietary shells, others offer full-fledged OS with the ability to install third-party applications. The key factor in the choice is the ecosystem: Wear OS from Google or closed systems MIOT/HyperOS Connect. Discuss each category of devices in more detail to structure knowledge about the company's products.

Fitness bracelets Mi Band: the evolution of the format

The history of the brand’s wearable devices began with the Mi Band series, which actually created a new segment of affordable electronics. For a long time, these devices were classified as simple activity trackers, but recent generations, such as the Mi Band 8 and 9, have radically changed the concept of form factor. AMOLED-screens that are attached to various straps, including neck and bicycle.

The main feature of these gadgets is their autonomy and lightness, they are designed for those who do not need complex operating systems, but the accuracy of health monitoring is important. Built-in SpO2 sensors, new generation pulse monitors and sleep trackers operate in the background, with little or no impact on battery life, and the user receives up to two weeks of activity without recharging, which is the standard for this class.

Despite being compact, the devices are constantly expanding, with NFC support for payment and pass, the ability to answer calls through a built-in microphone and speaker (in recent models), and a rich selection of dials. Sports recognition algorithms allow you to automatically determine running, swimming or cycling, fixing key metrics of training.

It's worth noting that the management interface in this series is minimalist, because you can't install messengers or maps, but you can only stream all the information from your smartphone, and it's both a limitation and an advantage that allows you to keep your attention off notifications and keep your focus on real tasks or sports.

Fully-fledged smart watches on Wear OS

With the launch of the Xiaomi Watch series (particularly the 2 and S Pro models), the company has taken the next step by introducing Google’s full-fledged Wear OS, a game-changing experience: it’s not just a notifier, it’s a miniature computer on the wrist, requiring more frequent charging, usually every 2-3 days, but offering unlimited customization options.

The main advantage of this platform is access to the Google Play store. You can install navigators, music streaming services, instant messengers and even banking apps directly on the watch. The presence of the eSIM module in top models allows you to make calls and go online without being tied to a smartphone, turning the gadget into a standalone communication device.

⚠️ Attention: Wear-based devices OS require Android smartphones (version 6.0 and higher) for initial configuration and full functionality. iPhone owners will be severely limited or not available at all.

The hardware is also more powerful: Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear processors, more RAM, and improved dual-band GPS modules, which provide accurate tracking of routes even in dense urban areas or in the woods, often made of premium materials such as stainless steel and sapphire glass.

Mid-segment: Xiaomi Watch S and Active Series

Between fitness bracelets and flagship Wear OS-The devices are based on the Xiaomi Watch S and Active series, which run on the brand’s own operating system (often referred to as the “Watch S” or “Active”). MIOT It's called HyperOS Connect, which is the middle ground, and it provides smooth interfaces, great response, and Bluetooth call support, while still being energy efficient.

Visually, this watch often mimics classical analog models, especially the S series with its round dials and metal cases. AMOLED-With high-brightness displays, which make information readable even in direct sunlight, the important feature is the support for more than 100 sports modes and professional metrics for athletes.

Unlike Wear OS, you can’t install third-party apps from the store, but the basic functionality covers 95% of the needs of the average user: you can pay for purchases via NFC (Mi Pay), listen to music through a Bluetooth headset, take calls and monitor stress and blood oxygen levels, the balance between autonomy (up to 12 days) and functionality is brought to almost perfect level.

• 📱 Ecosystem: Deep integration with Xiaomi smart home devices.
• 🔋 Battery: Optimal ratio of operating time and availability of functions.
• 🏃 Sports: Advanced metrics for runners and swimmers (5) ATM defence).
• 💳 Payment: Support for contactless payments through built-in NFC chip.

Redmi Watch Budget Solutions

The Redmi Watch line is designed for those looking for maximum functionality on a minimal budget. These devices often feature a rectangular body resembling the Apple Watch and run on a lightweight firmware version. Despite the affordable price, they offer a large screen, which is their main trump card in the segment of budget electronics.

Redmi Watch is focused on basic tasks: notifications, monitoring sleep, heart rate and steps. Here you won't find complex algorithms for analyzing recovery or installing applications. However, for everyday wear and activity control, this is enough. The devices support voice assistant and have water protection, allowing you to wash your hands or get into the rain.

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When choosing between the Mi Band and the Redmi Watch, consider the strap mounting, which is often unique in bracelets, while the Redmi watch is a standard 20 or 22 mm, making it easy to change the straps to any third-party.

Autonomy in this series is also high, reaching 10-14 days depending on the intensity of notification use. It is a great choice for teenagers, older people or as a second hour for sports that are not a pity to stain or hit. The simplicity of the interface makes them understandable for users of any level of technical literacy.

Comparison of technical characteristics of series

To make a final decision, you need to compare the key parameters of different lines. The table below shows the averaged data that are typical for the current models of each class. Note that specific characteristics can vary depending on the generation of the device.

The table shows that the choice between the Mi Band and the Redmi Watch often boils down to a preference for shape (oval vs. rectangle) and screen size, while moving to the S or Watch 2 series is already a transition to premium accessories with appropriate material quality and enhanced functionality.

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The main criterion for choosing is the operating system. If you want apps and independence from the phone, only Wear OS. If autonomy and simplicity are important, proprietary Xiaomi systems.

Ecosystem and software

All of the brand’s modern devices are connected by a single management app, Xiaomi Wear (formerly Mi Fitness), a centralized hub where health data is collected, dials are configured and firmware is updated. It’s important to understand that the Wear OS clock may also require Google services and additional plugins to run, making it a little more difficult to set up the first time.

Smart home integration is another strong argument: You can control lighting, robotic vacuum cleaners, cameras and other things through the watch interface, as long as they're connected to a single account, and it turns the gadget into a remote control for the entire apartment, commands are given quickly, and delays are minimal, allowing for a comfortable interaction.

Regular software updates add new dials, training modes and fix bugs. The company maintains current models for 2-3 years, releasing updates several times a year. To install updates, you need to keep the device charge above 30% and not interrupt the connection to the smartphone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)